Sizing dilemma

So here’s the deal. My daughter is just about 3.5 and I’ve been making her size 4. She isn’t very tall (38″) but she’s solid (not big, just not a rail). Size 4 tends to be a tad big (usually) but I’m fine with that as it will fit her for more than a minute. My problem is there a bunch of patterns I want to buy, but I don’t know whether to move up to the bigger size range or to buy the smaller one. Is it easy enough to size down from the 5? I’m not good at modifying patterns, but I also want to make sure she can wear it before a year from now. Any advice??

I own about 20 others that I will eventually have to replace with the bigger size ranges. Part of me thinks I should get the bigger ones because chances are I won’t get to all of them before she’s grown, but then part of me also wants to be able to make them for her now. Argh!!

I’m right there with you. I have a daughter just in size 4, but I’m having a hard time buying patterns for just one size. I’ve been buying the larger size for most. I do have the family reunion in both sizes now after advice from the lovely ladies here.

I’m in the same boat as Nicole — at some point I will try to collect the whole shebang in paper to hand down to my daughter (or possibly a grandchild if that seems like a better option). There’s something very satisfying about the object-ness of the paper patterns.

If you’re just buying to sew, you could buy the pattern along with the fabric and notions when it’s time to actually make the project. Kind of like not buying ingredients until you’re ready to cook so high hopes don’t fall prey to a busy life and turn into wasted food (sigh, something that still happens to me despite my best intentions).

The Icecream dress, and the Book Report dress are both generous patterns around the chest and waist, and very easy to lengthen or shorten because they are divided into sections c/o design. I’m biased because these are two of my favourites. The Music box pinafore is a joy to sew, and nicely roomy around the chest without swimming.